Two college students from California tragically lost their lives after a storm surge and powerful waves pulled them into the Pacific Ocean while they were napping near a risky beach access point, according to authorities.
The victims, identified as Harshita Nair, 21, and Mahyal Suran, 20, were friends from Fremont, as informed by the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.
It is believed the two were resting close to the Keyhole, a natural arch used to reach Yellow Bank Beach. On that Wednesday afternoon, an unexpected tide swept them into the sea.
“We think they were sleeping near the keyhole. It’s a spot where people can easily get surprised by the rising water,” said Santa Cruz County Volunteer Fire Department Captain Kyle Brereton in a video from Cal Fire. “The tide came in, and unfortunately, they were caught.”
Emergency services were alerted by a witness who called 911, prompting a swift response to the secluded beach. About eight rescue swimmers entered the rough waters, part of a multi-agency effort that included CAL FIRE, state lifeguards, and local fire departments.
One woman was brought back to Panther Beach, where rescuers attempted life-saving measures. Meanwhile, the second victim was found farther down the coast and airlifted from Yellow Bank Beach by a CAL FIRE helicopter while CPR was being performed.
Both women were taken to the hospital but were later declared dead, as reported by KSBW.
Nair was studying law at the University of California, Berkeley, while Suran was pursuing public health at San Jose State University. They were set to graduate from Fremont’s Washington High School in 2023 and expected to complete their degrees by 2027, as mentioned in the New York Post.
“I can’t believe this happened,” said Nile’s father, Ahok Nile. “It’s just unbelievable. I’m still reeling.”
The incident took place along a notoriously perilous section of Santa Cruz County’s coastline, known for steep waves, powerful currents, and unpredictable “sneaker waves” that can surge suddenly.
This water rescue marked the fifth of its kind in just a month along the one-mile stretch between Yellow Bank Beach and Bonny Doon Beach, officials noted.
California has been facing severe surf and hazardous ocean conditions, leading to several unfortunate incidents. Forecasters have indicated a prolonged southerly swell, which will likely cause strong rip currents and large waves, contributing to an uptick in water rescues throughout the state.
